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Money needed to replace downtown flags has been raised ... and quadrupled

A U.S. flag waves in the breeze on Maine Street In Quincy. (H-W Photo/Steve Bohnstedt)

Posted: Jul. 15, 2014 10:11 am Updated: Jul. 29, 2014 11:15 am

By MATT HOPFHerald-Whig Staff Writer

It didn't even take one week to raise enough money to replace the more than 70 U.S. flags that adorn light poles around Washington Park and along Maine Street.

The District, formerly the Historic Quincy Business District, has raised nearly $6,000, quadrupling the goal of $1,500. The goal was boosted by $1,500 donations from both the Quincy Tea Party and from local family members of the late Col. Kenneth G. Swan of South Orange, N.J.

Travis Brown, executive director of the District, said the support from the community was overwhelming since the campaign launched last Wednesday.

"We're very, very fortunate that they stepped up, and because they've given us so much more money, we'll probably be able to add some flags," he said.

Brown said the organization can buy flags in bulk at a discounted price, so it likely will not have to buy more for at least five years.

"We also have a couple other companies that have shown some interest in partnering," he said.

Donations are still being accepted. They can be sent to the District, 128 N. Fifth, Quincy, IL 62301. The District also is accepting donations on its e-commerce site, shopthedistrictquincy.com, through its District Store.

"Our hope is that we've got a pretty good idea (of how much money has been raised) by the end of the week so we can order them," he said.